Safety in Taiwan
Taiwan consistently ranks among the world's safest countries. The 2025 Numbeo Safety Index ranked Taiwan 4th globally, ahead of Japan and Singapore.
Safety Statistics
| Category | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall safety | Very High | 4th safest country |
| Violent crime | Very Low | Rare |
| Petty crime | Very Low | Minimal pickpocketing |
| Walking at night | Very Safe | Even alone |
| Public transport | Very Safe | Clean and monitored |
What Makes Taiwan Safe
Cultural factors:
- Strong social cohesion
- Low inequality
- Respect for others' property
- Shame culture discourages crime
Practical factors:
- High police presence
- Extensive CCTV coverage
- Strict gun control (near-zero gun crime)
- Well-lit streets
Common Concerns (Minor)
Scams:
- Phone scams (claiming to be government)
- Rare taxi overcharging
- ATM skimming (uncommon)
Traffic:
- Scooter traffic can be chaotic
- Pedestrian awareness needed
- Most common safety concern
Natural disasters:
- Typhoon season (June-October)
- Earthquakes (buildings earthquake-resistant)
- Generally well-managed
Safety by Area
Taipei:
- No truly dangerous neighborhoods
- Safe to walk anywhere at night
- Xinyi, Da'an exceptionally safe
- Ximending crowded but safe
Other cities:
- All major cities very safe
- Rural areas even safer
- Tourist areas well-policed
For Women
Taiwan is considered one of Asia's safest countries for women:
- Street harassment rare
- Safe to walk alone at night
- MRT has women-only waiting areas at night
- Generally respectful culture
For LGBTQ+
Taiwan is Asia's most LGBTQ+-friendly country:
- Same-sex marriage legal (2019)
- Active Pride celebrations
- Taipei especially accepting
- Legal protections in place
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 110 |
| Fire/Ambulance | 119 |
| English helpline | 0800-024-111 |
Staying Safe
General tips:
- Standard urban awareness
- Secure belongings on scooters
- Watch for traffic (especially scooters)
- Be cautious with phone/internet scams
Natural disasters:
- Download Taiwan disaster alert apps
- Know building earthquake procedures
- Stock basic supplies during typhoon season
- Follow government advisories
Health & Environmental Safety
Air quality:
- Generally good, occasional poor days
- Check AQI during spring (sandstorms)
- Apps: Taiwan AQI
Water:
- Tap water not drinkable (boil or filter)
- Bottled water readily available
- Ice in restaurants is safe (from purified water)
Pro Tips
- •Taiwan is safer than most Western countries - relax and enjoy
- •Traffic (especially scooters) is the main safety concern
- •Tap water isn't drinkable - use filtered or bottled
- •Natural disasters are well-managed - follow alerts
- •LGBTQ+ visitors will find Taiwan very welcoming
Have questions about safety in Taiwan?